I kicked stress into touch and started my dream job

A former supermarket assistant manager decided to quit the retail industry to start up his own dog grooming business after losing three stone in weight due to stress of the job.

Dylan Wyn Davies, 35, from Llandusol, who is prone to anxiety and depression, made the decision to change career pathways and follow his dream of working with animals after feeling that his previous job had taken its toll on him.

He says, “I was working ridiculous hours and my work-life balance had completely disappeared. I was so stressed and miserable that I decided it was time to take control of my life and pursue my dream of working with dogs or horses.”

After undertaking a City and Guilds part-funded Level 3 course in Professional Dog Grooming in 2014, Dylan set up his own dog grooming business in March 2015.

Dylan spent significant time researching how best to go about setting up his own business and received a lot of advice from his friend, Georgia Stafford-Fuller, who already has a well-established dog grooming business in Llanelli. He is now studying for a higher diploma in professional dog grooming.

“The whole process of setting up my own business was very scary, especially when you are already an anxious person like me, but I received so much great advice and support that I had no doubts when I finally launched Cwtch Cuts last year.”

In just over 12 months, Dylan has managed to establish a strong customer base across south west Wales and set up a permanent dog grooming parlour in Aberaeron. He was also awarded Exemplary Handler of the Year in 2014 and Master Groomer of the Year in 2015, both highly esteemed awards within the dog grooming industry.

“I am absolutely delighted with how the business is growing and developing. I get a lot of referrals from people who are pleased with the service I provide, as well as repeat customers which is great.“I feel so proud of what I have achieved in such a short period of time and it is fantastic to be doing something that I’m passionate about. I am so glad I made the leap and changed careers as I couldn’t be happier and am so excited to see what the future will hold.

“I currently specialise in Welsh Terriers and Labradoodles but I’m currently undertaking my higher diploma in professional dog grooming in order to further develop my skills and hopefully work with a wider range of dogs in the future. You can never possess all the skills you need so I think it’s important to continue learning in order to be the best I can in my industry.”

Dylan kicked stress into touch by gaining the skills he needed to start his dream job.

You can find the support you need to do the same - check out our Skills Gateway web pages or call 0800 028 4844 to talk to one of our advisors.

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